B'nai Zion Temple facts for kids
Quick facts for kids B'nai Zion Temple |
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B'nai Zion Temple, in 2015
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Reform Judaism |
| Ecclesiastical or organisational status | Synagogue |
| Status | Active |
| Location | |
| Location | 802 Cotton Street, Shreveport, Louisiana |
| Country | United States |
 Location in Shreveport Downtown
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| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Edward F. Neild & Clarence Olschner |
| Architectural type | Synagogue |
| Architectural style | Beaux Arts |
| Date established | 1861 (as a congregation) |
| Completed | 1915 |
The B'nai Zion Temple is a very old and important Jewish place of worship, called a synagogue. It is located in downtown Shreveport, Louisiana. This beautiful building was finished in 1915 and has a special architectural style called Beaux-Arts. It's a significant landmark in the city's history.
Contents
History of B'nai Zion Temple
Early Jewish Community in Shreveport
The Jewish community in Shreveport started small in the late 1840s. By 1857, a group of Jewish people had formed a small congregation. A congregation is a group of people who gather for religious worship. They met in one of their homes, led by Rabbi Julius Lewin.
In 1861, this group chose the name Har-el. They began holding their services in the home of a local Jewish businessman. Most members of this congregation followed the Reform tradition of Judaism. This is a branch of Judaism that often adapts to modern life. After the American Civil War ended, the group changed its name again to Hebrew Zion.
Building the First Synagogue
In 1869, the congregation built its very first place of worship. This building was located on Fannin Street. It was a big step for the growing Jewish community in Shreveport.
In 1875, there was a disagreement within the congregation about religious traditions. This led to a split, and a new Orthodox congregation was formed. Orthodox Judaism is another branch that follows traditional laws very strictly. However, this split did not last long. In 1877, the two groups came back together. They agreed to continue following the Reform tradition of Judaism.
A New Temple for a Growing Community
By 1910, the Fannin Street building was too small. The Hebrew Zion congregation had more than 150 members. Because of this growth, plans were made to build a new, larger temple.
In 1915, the new building was completed and officially opened. It was designed in the Beaux-Arts style, which is known for its grand and classical look. When the new temple opened, the congregation was renamed B'nai Zion. People thought the building was "an architectural gem," meaning it was very beautiful and a great addition to the city. After World War II, the temple had grown even more, with over 300 members.
Relocation and Preservation
In 1955, the B'nai Zion congregation moved to an even newer building on Southfield Road. By 1962, their membership had grown to over 400 people. After the congregation moved, the old building was sold to the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic organization.
In 1993, a private group interested in history bought the building. They wanted to protect it because of its beautiful architecture. Today, the historic B'nai Zion Temple building is empty. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. This means it is recognized as an important historical site in the United States. The building also became part of the Shreveport Commercial Historic District in 1997.
See also
